Writing Tips #2 Use of “is” and/or “it” Created by Katie Bain English Language Fellow

Agenda 1. What´s the problem? 2. What are the related rules? 3. Let´s fix the errors!

What´s the problem? Due to language transfer, sometimes there is confusion over how to use “is” and “it” together correctly. For example, in Spanish, we can say… ◦ Es posible. But in English, we cannot say… ◦ Is possible. We must say… ◦ It is possible.

What´s the problem? In both Spanish and English, there must be a subject and a verb to have a complete sentence. However, in Spanish, it is possible for the subject to be implied, while in English, the subject must be stated (except in the imperative form). In Spanish: ◦ Es posible. The subject is implied, based on the context and the verb form. In English: ◦ It is possible. This sentence must have “it” or another subject in order to be complete.

What else is the problem? The ways to combine “it” with “is” can be confusing. For example: ◦ Its – Shows possession  Example: The flower needs water. Its leaves are wilted. ◦ It´s – Combines “it” and “is”  Example: It´s a beautiful day today! (It is a …)

Another problem… You cannot use two verbs in a row incorrectly. For example ◦ It´s helps people. ◦ In this sentence, you have two verbs, but you only need one. You have is and helps. Take out the unnecessary verb. ◦ Correct: It helps people.

One more problem… Sometimes, adding “it” repeats the subject in a way that is unnecessary and incorrect. For example… ◦ The dog who lives at my neighbor´s house it is very cute. (It is grammatically incorrect to add “it” and repeat the subject here because the subject has not yet taken a verb.) ◦ Correct: The dog who lives at my neighbor´s house is very cute. ◦ Correct: The dog is cute, and it lives at my neighbor´s house.

Let´s fix the errors! INCORRECT: Also its notable that the writer is biased. CORRECT:Also it is notable that the writer is biased.

Error #2 INCORRECT: Evidence about DDT says isn’t harmful. CORRECT: Evidence about DDT says it isn’t harmful.

Error #3 INCORRECT: It’s save lives. CORRECT: It saves lives.

Error #4 INCORRECT:The text “DDT vs. Death by Malaria,” written by Cihak, J.R (2004), it’s about the use of DDT. CORRECT: The text “DDT vs. Death by Malaria,” written by Cihak, J.R (2004), is about the use of DDT.

Error #5 INCORRECT:Also he expressed that is in favor of the use of DDT. CORRECT: Also he expressed that he is in favor of the use of DDT.

Error #6 INCORRECT: Its help to eradicate Malaria. CORRECT: It helps to eradicate Malaria.